Not sure if friendship accurately describes the relationship between Russia and China.

I think it is a very opportunistic and imbalanced relationship. With Russia having little alternatives, and China gladly taking advantage of cheap resources and selling opportunities.

I can't see China sticking with Russia for ideological reasons the second the situation becomes unfavorable for them. In that case they'll drop them like a hot potato and swoop back in to profit once the dust has settled again.

But you are right that they might not team up with the West and rather choose to just sit on the sidelines. At least as long as no one forces them to pick a side.